La Paz Travelers Recommend

A trip to Baja California in late autumn through spring offers a chance to swim with the world’s largest fish: whale sharks. These animals can grow to the size of a school bus, but, they are harmless to humans. Here’s what you need to know to plan an unforgettable, eco-friendly encounter with these gentle giants. ** When to Go** Whale sharks migrate through Baja California Sur and the Sea of Cortez from October to April, often congregating in the sheltered and nutrient-rich waters of the Bay of La Paz to feed on abundant plankton and krill. Most peninsula whale shark tours depart from La Paz, Cabo San Lucas, or San José del Cabo.   How to Go Organized tours ensure a safe and responsible way to swim with the whale sharks, plus the best chance of sightings thanks to expert crews and tracking systems. After catching a catamaran or other boat out to sea, you’ll wait for your captain’s signal to jump in once a whale shark is spotted nearby. Because the animals tend to feed in shallow waters, it’s possible for even novice snorkelers to experience the thrill of observing them beneath the surface. ** Things to Know**

• Growing up to 40 feet (12 meters), whale sharks are the biggest fish in the ocean. However, these toothless vertebrates feed mainly on plankton and are not considered dangerous to swimmers.
• To help with conservation, the Mexican government requires all those who enter whale shark territory to secure a permit, usually worn as a bracelet and provided by tour operators.
• Most tours provide all the gear you need, including a snorkeling mask, fins, and a wet suit for your comfort. Though the water may be warm in October, it gets downright chilly during the winter months.
• Tours range from a few hours to a full day, with some providers adding stops in the town of Todos Santos for lunch and a visit to the legendary Hotel California.

Quieter than Los Cabos yet just as charming, La Paz is the ideal destination for culture lovers and sun worshippers. Though you could easily while away weeks in the Baja Peninsula, one day in La Paz is just enough to see the city’s highlights. Here’s how.

Morning: Explore the City

Get your bearings in La Paz’s historic center on a walking tour, which typically lead you along the malecón (boardwalk) and make stops at La Paz Cathedral and the Juárez Theatre. Or, hone in on the city’s murals on a street art tour. Just be sure to get started early in order to beat the heat.

Afternoon: Take to the Sea

Once the sun reaches its peak, take refuge in the salty waters Pacific Ocean while swimming with whale sharks. The coast of La Paz is one of the top places in the world to spot whale sharks in their natural habitat—full- or half-day tours increase your chances of spotting the giants and typically include round-trip transfers from your hotel for ease.

Alternatively, head to the UNESCO-protected Espiritu Santo Island, where you can spot sea lions, swim and snorkel, and lunch on secluded beaches. Plus, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the La Paz coastline en route.

Night: Dine at Leisure

For your first and last night in La Paz, return to the malecón to catch the sunset. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to one of the city’s top restaurants for an indulgent dinner and drinks. Sampling some of the region’s seafood is a must—look out for specialties like almejas chocolatas rellenas (stuffed clams). Then, head to one of La Paz’s bars to sample several smoky mezcal shots; some dedicated mezcal bars offer immersive tasting sessions.